This great recipe is full of rich flavor. It is a little more complicated than some slow cooker recipes, but the precooking steps are definitely worth it. And, if you are one of those who traditionally HATE most slow cooker recipes, you will change your mind after making this.
Traditional Coq Au Vin recipes can be fairly time consuming. This recipe comes together fairly quickly (20 minutes prep) and then you let it cook slowly in the slow cooker. Pair it with mashed potatoes for a great filling meal.
Slow Cooker Coq Au Vin
1/2 lb sliced bacon, diced
4 lbs chicken thighs or a whole cut up chicken
1/2 cup apple juice or 1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 lb small white mushrooms (or quarter larger mushrooms)
1 large onion cut in slices or 1 cup frozen pearl onions, thawed
6 garlic cloves, chopped
1 Tbsp dried rosemary leaves
1 tsp kosher salt
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1/4 cup water
2 Tbsp cornstarch
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-low heat until crisp. With a slotted spoon, transfer it to your slow cooker. Poor all but a light coating of grease from the skilllet.
2. Place the chicken in the skillet. Brown both sides over medium-high heat. Transfer to slow cooker with a slotted spoon.
3. Pour the juice or wine into the skillet. Scrap up any browned bits. Pour the juice and grease into the slow cooker.
4. Add the mushrooms, onions, garlic, rosemary, and salt to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for 6 hours or high heat for 3 hours.
5. After cooking, transfer the chicken, bacon, and vegetables to a platter. Cover to keep warm.
6. In a cold sauce pan, mix the water and cornstarch. Pour in the sauce from the slow cooker; stir to combine with cornstarch/water. Heat the mixture to boiling, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes). Pour over the chicken or serve separately.
Notes: Do not try to cook this with just white meat peices or with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. It needs the flavor of the dark meat and the bones.
I have cooked this dish with both juice and wine and I have found that both produce very pleasing flavors. Use which ever you prefer or which ever is most convenient.